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The Translator

“Ah, Sir, I’m afraid-” he paused and frowned as he glanced beside him. “What? No, I can’t say that, it’s rude!” He crossed his arms as the hooded man next to him spoke harshly. “I know you’re paying me to get the job done. I will, if you let me do it. And that threat stopped working ages ago.”

He shook his head and glanced ahead of him. “I’m sorry about that,” he rubbed the back of his head. “My boss is having a rough day. Oh, yes, I’m sure you are, too!” He raised his hand as angry gestures were thrown his way. “In fact, that’s why we’re here. Ah, you see, the reason you’re so unhappy is because you’re not where you know you ought to be.

“Oh, no, no, it’s not your fault. You haven’t done anything wrong, don’t worry!” He smiled. “It’s our job – “ he winced at the jab to his side. “It’s his job to find those like you who have lost their way. I’m just here to translate!” He frowned and leaned forward. “Pardon me?”

There was a grumbling breeze.

“Oh, I’m afraid they’re long gone, now. Nothing left here, as you can see,” he swept his arms around at the ruins around them. “In fact, you’ll have a much higher chance of finding them if you come with us.” He winced again. “If you go with him.”

The figure beside him offered his hand.

There was a pause. Then slowly a silver hand, translucent, placed itself into the bony grasp. It was caught and pulled, and they faded from view.

He sighed, rolling his eyes. “Send me my usual.” He called out. “Honestly,” he muttered, “sometimes I wonder if it’s worth it.” He shoved his hands into his pockets and made his way from the ruins. The rumours would slowly fade, and soon this house would be no more than a distant memory, eventually consumed by the forest.

He stopped and frowned. “Already?” He grumbled. His eyes glinted silver in the starlight, and he disappeared into the woods. “And here I thought I’d get a night off.” His words chased his image into the darkness.

—-

I thought my summer schedule would be lighter, but it turns out I’m working even more. Which is a good thing! But I’ve been neglecting my blog. Apologies!

Your stories often have a nice turn around, this one is no exception. I really like the way you take a pulpy premiss, but, through a close POV and myopic character focus, turn it into something ethereal and personal 🙂 Good work.

No, the rereading didn’t bother me. Now, if it had been a 400 page novel, it might have. I like the “ah” moment when everything becomes clear, but sometimes feel a bit dense that I didn’t understand on the first read. I like your take on various plot lines. Never a dull moment. 😀